Non-bank entities intending to set up WLAs under these guidelines may approach RBI for seeking specific authorisation within four months from the date of issuance of these guidelines, RBI said.

Such non-bank entities should have a minimum networth of Rs 100 crore as per the latest financial year's audited balance sheet, it said, adding the networth of at least Rs 100 crore has to be maintained at all times.

Although there has been nearly 23-25 per cent annual growth in the number of ATMs, their deployment has been predominantly in tier I and II cities.

In spite of the banks' pioneering efforts in this direction, much needs to be done, it said, adding, there is a need to expand the reach of ATMs in Tier III to VI cities.